Should You Brush Your Teeth Before Or After Breakfast?

 

Toothbrushes in a glass - one orange and one blue - reflected in a hotel mirror. Click image to license. 

© Evan's Studio, 2019

Which one is better: brushing your teeth before or after breakfast?

Studies have been mixed and there is no significant winner. In this blog post we will look at the case for brushing your teeth before breakfast and the one for brushing your teeth after breakfast.

Brushing Before Breakfast

The case for brushing your teeth before breakfast is that bacterial levels in your mouth are at their highest right when you wake up. Brushing your teeth before breakfast can help eliminate this bacteria before it has a chance to feed on the remnants of your morning feast. 

Brushing before breakfast can also kick-start the production of saliva. Saliva is a protective force inside of your mouth and helps neutralize acidity that can break down tooth enamel.

Brushing After Breakfast

Brushing after you eat breakfast eliminates any remaining food and leaves the fluoride intact for the remainder of the day. Some argue that the fluoride from brushing may be displaced by eating and chewing afterwards.

Some experts say that brushing your teeth too soon after breakfast can actually damage your enamel, especially if you are eating acidic foods. Others counter that the damage is not significant. Many dentists recommend waiting 30 minutes after you eat before brushing and drinking or gargling water in the downtime. 

The Best Of Both Worlds

If the experts are stumped, why not brush before and after breakfast? 

What are your thoughts? Do you brush before or after breakfast? Or both? Leave a comment below.

The Importance Of Shredding Documents

 

A close-up of shredded paper filling the entire frame. The paper is white and has various shades of light and shadow. The image can be used for many different purposes such as promoting shredding businesses, topics related to privacy, and illustrating security concepts. Click image to license. © Evan's Studio, 2023

 

Shredding paper has many benefits - some more obvious than others. Local governments like Santa Monica, CA often offer free shredding events where they shred the paper and recycle it. Recycling can help reduce the emission of destructive greenhouse gases.

Why You Would Benefit From Shredding Paper

1. Protects your identity: identity theft is big business for criminals costing Americans billions of dollars per year. Documents that aren't shredded can be used to steal sensitive information. 
2. Reduces clutter: paper that isn't shredded can build up resulting in a disorganized workspace. 
3. Legal compliance: certain professionals may be required by law to shred paper. Shredding helps protect the sensitive information of clients.
4. Reduces fire risks: having less combustible material in your home or office can reduce the risks of fire.

Click image to license. © Evan's Studio, 2023

Knife Sharpening Frequency: A Guide to Staying Sharp

 

 

Rustic weathered knife on wooden cutting board with blood surrounding it at a fish market. Click image to license. © Evan's Studio

How Often Should You sharpen Your Knives?

Keeping your knives sharp is important for the optimal cooking experience. But how do you know when to sharpen them? The frequency of sharpening can depend on how often you use the knives. The ones that you use most frequently may need to be sharpened every two weeks. On the other hand, knives that you use less frequently may only need to be sharpened a few times a year. In general, knives should be sharpened at least a few times a year. The answer can also depend on what type of knives you are using. For instance, a serrated blade needs to be sharpened less frequently than a straight one.

The Difference Between Sharpening and Honing

Honing is the process of realigning (or smoothing) the edge of the knife using a steel rod. The edge can become bent and misaligned after frequent usage. However, honing does not remove any material from the knife like sharpening does. Honing is recommended before every knife use. 

Sharpening removes material from the blade using a whetstone, a diamond stone, an electric sharpener or a manual one.

Signs That Your Knives Need Sharpening

• The knife requires more force to cut through the food. 
• The blade feels dull.
• It squishes or slips off of food. 
• It isn't sharp enough to cut paper.

How To Properly Hone Your Knives

Check out this video tutorial to watch how to properly hone your knives.

Spathodea Campanulata: The Invasive African Tulip Tree

 

 

A low angle view of a bright orange African tulip-tree flower (Spathodea campanulata) from below. The flower is framed by wires and illuminated by the sunlight with a clear blue sky as the background. Click image to license. © Evan's Studio, 2018.

What is Spathodea campanulata?

Spathodea campanulata is a flowering tree also known as the African tulip tree. The tree has vibrant orange-red flowers and is monotypic - meaning that is the only species in the genus Spathodea. Spathodea campanulata is native to tropical African forests. The tree is often grown in non-native locations like the one pictured above, which was photographed in Jalisco, Mexico. Spathodea campanulata is part of the Bignoniaceae family, which includes several other ornamental trees. 

How high does Spathodea campanulata grow?

 The African tulip tree can grow close to 80 feet in height.

Why is Spathodea campanulata considered harmful?

Since the African tulip tree is considered an invasive non-native species, it can crowd out native plants. Although beautiful, the plant's nectar can be toxic to bees.

What is another name for Spathodea campanulata?

Besides the African tulip tree, Spathodea campanulata is also known as the flame of the forest.

Rain drops cover the window creating a blurry and distorted effect when paired with the street lamps and headlights outside. Click image to license. © Evan's Studio

 Cognitive distortions are unhelpful ways of thinking that can make us feel bad about ourselves and others. Identifying these destructive thought patterns is the first step in addressing them. After you have identified your thought as a cognitive distortion, you can work on replacing it with a more rational explanation. Writing down your automatic thoughts, cognitive distortions, and rational responses under three different columns is known as the triple column technique advocated by Dr. David D. Burns.

Five More Common Cognitive Distortions

6. Should Statements: You tell yourself "I should be doing this or that" for motivation. These types of thoughts can make you feel pressured, guilty and shameful. When directed at others eg. "he should get his act together" these statements can make you feel frustrated and angry.
   

7. Emotional Reasoning: You conflate your feelings with the truth. For example, you feel a certain way so you believe that it must be the truth.
   

8. Magnification: You magnify the importance of negatives. For example, you tell yourself that you will never be able to become a doctor after getting a C on a chemistry exam.
   

9. Labeling: Labeling is an extreme type of overgeneralizing and oversimplifying. For instance, you tell yourself "I'm a complete loser" after missing the game winning shot at the basketball game instead of "I missed the shot".
   

10. Personalization: You blame yourself for a negative event which you were not responsible for. This can lead to feelings of guilt. For example, after you weren't able to sell a house, you tell yourself "I must be a terrible real estate agent. It is my fault that they didn't decide to buy the house." 

    To see the first five cognitive distortions click here to read my previous blog post.
    

Unmasking Five Common Cognitive Distortions

A silhouette of a person holding scissors against a wall. Click image to license. © Evan's Studio, 2016.

Cognitive distortions are unhelpful ways of thinking that can make us feel bad about ourselves and others. Identifying these destructive thought patterns is the first step in addressing them. After you have identified your thought as a cognitive distortion, you can work on replacing it with a more rational explanation. Writing down your automatic thoughts, cognitive distortions, and rational responses under three different columns is known as the triple column technique advocated by Dr. David D. Burns.

Five Common Cognitive Distortions

1. All or Nothing Thinking - you see things in shades of black and white devoid of any nuance. For example, you tell yourself "I am a total loser" after not being promoted.
   
   
2. Overgeneralizing - you conclude that because one bad thing happened to you it will keep happening and it will always be that way. For example, after being rejected for a date, you conclude that you will always be alone and that nobody will ever want to be with you.
   
   
3. Mental Filter - you focus exclusively on a negative detail and filter out the positives. For example, you read about a massacre in the news and conclude that all people are cruel and evil.
   
   
4. Jumping to Conclusions - you make snap judgments that aren't based on facts. For example, you see a friend of yours repetitively yawn during a conversation and conclude that you must be boring them. Instead that friend was up all night and you didn't bother to consider that explanation.
   
   
5. Disqualifying The Positive - you turn positive or neutral experiences into negative ones. For example, after someone says that they like your artwork you tell yourself that they are just being polite and really don't think that way. 

Want to read more? Check out my recent post about five more common cognitive distortions!

An Effective CBT Technique For Depression Relief

A stock photo showing a shadow of a human hand reaching up for help. Click image to license.
© Evan's Studio, 2016

Depression is a serious and complex mental health disorder. There are many different types of depression including:

• Major Depression 
• Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)
• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) 
• Bipolar Disorder
• Prenatal and Postpartum Depression

To read a full description of each one of these disorders click here.

This blog post will be about a specific technique that I have developed, which I find useful in controlling the symptoms of depression. The technique is based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which has been shown to be effective in treating depression in many studies. CBT helps you refocus your thoughts, which hopefully leads to behavioral and mood changes. The premise is that you can change your behaviors, emotions, and mood if you are able to change the ways that you think. In other words, our emotions, behaviors and thoughts are interconnected and we can train ourselves to learn more helpful thought patterns.

This specific technique is effective because it forces you to focus your thoughts on what you like to do. Writing down and reviewing these activities reinforces these positive thoughts. Mindfully spending more of your time doing the things on this list will help change your mood.

The Evan's Studio Like List Technique

1. Make a list of things you like to do i.e., cooking, running, walking the dog, sex, watching movies, listening to music etc. 
   
   

2.  Review and add likes to this list every day.
   
   

3. Spend more of your time doing the things on this list.

    
   

Caring for Your Money Tree: The Essentials

  Stock photo of a money tree available for licensing. It is in direct sunlight with some yellowing of the leaves. Click image to license.

© Evan's Studio

Money trees (Pachira Aquatica) are superstitiously known for bringing you good luck and wealth.  Ensure the ideal environment for your money tree with this brief guide.

Brief Guide: Caring For Your Money Tree

1. Pot and Soil: 

Place the money tree in a well-draining container with multiple drainage holes and a peat moss based potting mix.

2. Light:  

Place in indirect and bright light (the one pictured above has scorched leaves due to being placed in direct sun light.) Avoid direct sun and deep shade. Rotate occasionally for even growth.

3. Watering:  

Water thoroughly every 1-2 weeks and allow the soil to completely dry in between watering. Pour out any excess water from the tray.

4. Temperature and Humidity: 

The ideal temperature range for money plants is between 60°F and 75°F, Money trees enjoy humid conditions, which you can simulate by misting. Be careful not to over-saturate the plants!

5. Pruning: 

Remove yellow, brown, dead, and dying leaves.

6. Fertilizing:  

Fertilize during the spring and summer with balanced water-soluble fertilizer every 4-6 weeks. Fertilizing isn't necessary in the fall and winter.

7. Re-potting: 

Re-pot when the roots start to overcrowd the container, usually every 2-3 years, and ideally in the spring.

Simple Independent Contractor vs. Employee Determination

Landscaping supplies in front of a reserved parking space. Click image to license. © Evan's Studio

Independent Contractor vs. Employee Determination

Answer the following questions to determine your employment status:

Is your contract with the organization for a specific duration (e.g., 6 months)?
Yes No
Do you have a high degree of control over the work you do for the organization? In other words, is there a high degree of independence in the work that you do? If you are required to work at certain times, places, and follow specific instructions then select "no".
Yes No
Do you pay your own taxes (e.g., self-employment tax)?
Yes No
Can you determine your own prices for the services you provide?
Yes No
Do you use your own equipment to perform your work duties?
Yes No

Note: this is a simple interactive program designed to give you a basic idea of whether you are an employee or independent contractor. Different jurisdictions have different guidelines and employment law is complex. It should not be considered legal advice and it is important to contact a qualified labor attorney if you think that you may have been misclassified.

Sources & Further Reading:

• https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/independent-contractor-self-employed-or-employee
•  https://www.dir.ca.gov/dlse/faq_independentcontractor.htm
• https://legal.thomsonreuters.com/en/insights/articles/independent-contractor-vs-employee-what-does-it-matter
• https://www.nlrb.gov/guidance/key-reference-materials/national-labor-relations-act 
• https://www.nlrb.gov/news-outreach/news-story/board-modifies-independent-contractor-standard-under-national-labor
  

 

Embracing a Meatless Thanksgiving and Holiday Season

 

Mouth Watering Thanksgiving Stuffing: Click image to license. © Evan's Studio, 2017

The Benefits of A Meatless Thanksgiving and Holiday Season

As the holiday season approaches, the family gatherings and meal preparation take center stage. Traditionally, this time of year has been synonymous with large parties centered around meat-heavy dishes. A growing movement towards sustainability, health, and ethical compassion has paved the way for a meatless Thanksgiving and a more plant-based approach to the holiday celebrations. Many more of your guests are likely to have meatless diets so it is important that you don't alienate them. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of offering a meatless Thanksgiving and share tips on how to put your best foot forward this holiday season.

A Meatless Thanksgiving: A Celebration of Gratitude

1. Delicious Meatless Thanksgiving Recipes:

   • Explore a variety of plant-based recipes that capture the spirit of Thanksgiving and the holiday season. From Butternut Squash Risotto to home-made stuffing, there are limitless plant-based options that will be sure to keep your guests happy.

   • Browse recipes for vegan pumpkin pudding, vegan pumpkin pie, and vegan pecan pie for your Vegan guests.

2. Health Benefits of Plant-Based Diets:

   • There are many health benefits associated with meatless diets.

   • There is evidence that plant-based diets can help protect against cardiovascular disease, obesity, type-2 diabetes, and hypertention.

Extending Meatless Feasts Beyond Thanksgiving: A Meatless Holiday Season

1. Inclusive Holiday Entertaining:

   • Whether it's Hanukkah, Christmas, or New Year's Eve, learn how to prepare meatless feasts for your Vegetarian and Vegan guests.

   • Ask your guests if they have any diet restrictions before the festivities to ensure that everyone feels welcome.
     

2. Ethical Considerations:

   • Many people consider themselves Moral Vegetarians and don't eat meat because they believe that it is wrong on some level eg. causing unnecessary harm to animals and polluting the environment. 

    

   Do you have a favorite meatless holiday recipe that you would like to share? If so, leave a comment below!
   

    

Where is Your Unclaimed Money? The Best Ways To Claim Your Cash Online

 

 

Detailed view of a $1 dollar bill at an angle, representing unclaimed money discovery in our blog post. Click image to license.

© Evan's Studio, 2023

Unclaimed Money: Your Treasure Hunt for Hidden Cash

Introduction

Most of us can use some extra cash and there is a relatively quick and painless way to find some. The good news is that you are likely to have a hidden treasure waiting for you in the form of unclaimed money. In fact, according to CNBC, about 1 in 7 people have unclaimed property and there are close to $70 billion in unclaimed assets. In this blog post, we'll give a brief overview of unclaimed money and introduce you to valuable resources like MissingMoney.com that can help you uncover funds you didn't even know you had.

Defining Unclaimed Money

Unclaimed.org defines unclaimed money as "property or accounts within financial institutions or companies—in which there has been no activity generated (or contact with the owner) regarding the property for one year or a longer period." After a period of dormancy the property is designated as unclaimed, and by law, has to be turned over to the state. These assets can include forgotten bank accounts, annuties, unclaimed paychecks, stocks, dividends, abandoned safe deposit boxes, security deposits and more. Over time, these assets must be transferred to the custody of the state, where they wait to be claimed by their rightful owners.

The Importance of Reclaiming Unclaimed Money

Finding and reclaiming unclaimed money is relatively easy and can make a significant difference in your financial situation, especially for the people living paycheck to paycheck. It's simply put - free money - that can be used to pay bills, cover unexpected expenses, or go on a shopping spree. Why leave money on the table with the state when you can put it to good use for yourself and your family?

The Role of MissingMoney.com

MissingMoney.com is a user-friendly website sponsored by the National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) and the National Association of State Treasurers. There are 48 states, including California, that partner with missingmoney.com. It is designed to help individuals search multiple states at once and aggregates information from state agencies and organizations. Using this platform, you can quickly conduct a comprehensive search to see if any unclaimed funds are associated with your name.

How to Search for Unclaimed Money on MissingMoney.com

1. Visit the Website: Enter the URL MissingMoney.com.

2. Put In Your Information: Type your name in the search box.
   

3. Search: Click the search button, and the website will scan its database for any matches.

4. Review the Results: The website will display potential matches. Review the details carefully to make sure that they are correct. Tip: enter maiden names and name variations as well.
   

5. Claim Your Money: Follow the instructions listed to claim your unclaimed money. The process usually involves verifying your identity and providing some documentation.

More Resources

• Treasury Hunt: allows you to search for bonds that are older than 30 years, have matured and have not been cashed.
  
• Bureau of the Fiscal Service: tells you how to claim money from HUD, credit unions, US courts, and more.
  
• The Department of Labor's Wage and Hour Division: you can search to see if you are owed back wages by a former employer.
• TreasuryDirect.gov: provides links to various agencies where you can conduct more in-depth searches.
  

Make your content stand out and license this macro image today!

Have you been able to claim money using any of these methods? Leave a comment below!

Top 5 Spooktacular Halloween Costumes for 2023: Unleash Your Inner Monster!

 

A plump orange pumpkin in an Irvine pumpkin patch. Click image to license. © Evan's Studio, 2021

It is about that time of the year again! Halloween is in less than two months, and it's time to prepare using this Halloween costume guide for 2023! Whether you're planning a spine-tickling haunted house party or going trick-or-treating with your little devils, the perfect costume is paramount. This blog post lists the top 5 Halloween costumes for 2023!

The Top 5 Halloween Costumes for 2023

1. Barbie and Ken from the Barbie movie: 

   The Barbie movie was a big box office hit this summer and there are many ways you can customize these costumes to make them unique. Embrace your inner Barbie and Ken with ready made costumes or make your own!
   

2. Wednesday Addams: 

   What better way to celebrate Halloween than with an Addams family costume! Wednesday is the Netflix series that focuses on the gothic life of Wednesday Addams starring Jenna Ortega. You can find some inspiration for this costume here.
   

3. Harley Quinn from the Suicide Squad: 

   Join the ranks of supervillains this Halloween as Harley Quinn! The Suicide Squad is the DC Comics movie featuring Harley Quinn, a former psychiatrist turned evil. There are many different colorful outfits available for this idea.
   

4. Paw Patrol Costumes: 

   Paw Patrol is a TV series featuring a group of superhero dogs who work together to protect the community. There are many different dogs that you can dress up as including: Chase, Marshall, Rubble, Rocky, Zuma, Skye, Coral, Everest, Tracker, Tuck, Ella, and Rex!
   

5. Squid Game Costumes: 

   Squid Game is the popular Netflix shows where contestants are invited to participate in dangerous games with deadly consequences. The contestants wear track suits with numbers while the staff wear jumpsuits and masks. Check out this Seventeen article for Squid Game costume inspiration!

   
   A green pumpkin, or gumpkin, in an Irvine pumpkin patch. © Evan's Studio, 2021
   

License some Spooktacular Evan's Studio Halloween stock images before it is too late!

That is it – the top 5 Halloween costume ideas for 2023! What are you going to dress up as this year? Leave a comment below!

The Differences Between Royalty Free, Rights Managed, and Extended Stock Photo Licenses

This infographic shows a visual comparison of the 3 main stock photo licenses and summarizes the main differences. © Evan's Studio, 2023

What are the Different Types of Common Stock Photo Licenses?

Stock photos are images that you can purchase and use for a variety of purposes including: creating a website, accompanying an article, designing a menu, or in a blog post. The different ways you are able to use a stock image depend on the license type and the rights you are granted. Not all stock photos have the same usage rights and it is important to read your license carefully to understand what you can and cannot do.

This blog will summarize three common stock photo licenses: Royalty Free, Rights Managed, and Extended.

Royalty Free (RF)

Royalty Free is the most prevalent and cost efficient type of stock photo license. It means that you pay a one-time fee to download and use the image perpetually or as many times as you want, for as long as you want, and in a wide spectrum of permitted uses, as long as it follows the terms and conditions of the license agreement. It is important to note that there are restrictions on how you can use the Royalty Free content, so make sure that you read the license carefully.

The main advantage of Royalty Free images over Rights Managed for the customer is that they are flexible, affordable, and hassle-free. You can use them for numerous projects and purposes without worrying about paying extra fees or royalties. You do not have to pay additional royalties to the image owner or the agency each time you use the image. The main disadvantage is that they are non-exclusive, meaning that your other people can license the same image. Exclusive Royalty Free image licenses are occasionally available, but they are usually much more expensive. 

Rights Managed (RM)

Rights Managed is a less flexible type of stock photo license. It means that you pay a fee to use the image for a single project, use, or purpose for a set time and in a specific geographic region. There are other limits that may apply. The fee can vary depending on the specific use cases and is calculated by the agency or the image owner.

Rights Managed images offer greater control and protection for how the image is used, which can be important to the creator. The customer can negotiate the terms and conditions of the license agreement according to their tailored needs and budget. Customers can usually request exclusivity rights so that no one else can use the same image for the same or similar purpose during the license period. This can ease concerns about your competitors licensing the same image.

The main drawback of Rights Managed images is that they cost more and are less flexible than Royalty Free images. You will have to pay more for each additional use.

Extended

Extended is another type of stock photo license that grants extra rights that are not included in Royalty Free or Rights Managed licenses. It means that you pay an extra fee on top of the base license fee to extend your rights. 

These licenses DO NOT transfer ownership. The creator still maintains the copyright and ownership of the work. The licenses grant the customer permission to use the image.

Sources:

• https://marketing.istockphoto.com/blog/image-licensing/
• https://www.stockphotoguides.com/use/using/types-of-stock-photo-licenses 
• https://medium.com/wemark-stories/stock-photo-licenses-explained-27749d56760f
  
• https://www.default-design.com/3-types-of-stock-image-licenses/?lang=en
• https://www.gettyimages.com/eula

 

Purchase The Royalty Free License For This Infographic

Stop being confused by stock photo licenses. Clear the air & download your copy of the Ultimate Guide to Common Stock Photo Licenses: Visual Infographic today!

 

Serenity After Rain Green Clovers Background Image. ©Evan's Studio, 2023

If you would prefer to purchase the RF infographic directly through me instead of going through Gumroad, you can do so below. As a bonus for buying the infographic directly through me I will include the background image for free! Simply enter your email address and I will send you the unwatermarked versions within 24 hours. By buying the images you are agreeing to the terms of the license.

Email Address:

The Susan B. Anthony Dollar: A Valuable Coin for Collectors

The obverse side of the 1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar. © Evan's Studio, 2023

     The Susan B. Anthony Dollar is a United States dollar coin that was minted from 1979 to 1981, and 1999. 

The minting marks the first time that a real woman (as opposed to Lady Liberty) appears on a circulating United States coin. The designer of the coin is Frank Gasparro and you can see his initials "FG" on the obverse side.

  The Susan B. Anthony Dollar honors a pioneer women’s suffrage leader. 

The obverse side of the coin shows a right-facing Susan B. Anthony (see photo above). The reverse features an eagle clutching a laurel branch in its talons displayed on top of a landscape of the Moon's surface (see photo below). The coin is composed of Copper-Nickel Clad Copper.

    The reverse side of the 1979-P Susan B. Anthony Dollar. © Evan's Studio, 2023    

     While Susan B. Anthony Dollars are relatively common, they are not frequently encountered in circulation. A few qualities can make your Susan B. Anthony more valuable than average including:

• Condition: uncirculated coins will be more valuable than circulated ones.
• Rare varieties: the 1979-P Wide Rim Variety, the 1979-S Proof Type 2 (clear “S” mintmark) and the 1981-S Proof Type 2 (flat “S” mintmark), for example.
• Check here to see if you have the narrow or wide rim. 
  
• Proofs: you will find the "S" mint mark on these coins. 

    The Susan B. Anthony Dollar is an interesting and unique coin because it marks the first time that a real woman is featured on a circulating US coin. While it may not have been well-received by the public at the time of its release, it remains a unique and collectible coin today.

    For more about Susan B. Anthony Dollars check out the following links:

• https://www.ngccoin.com/coin-explorer/united-states/dollars/anthony-dollars-1979-1999/
• https://www.pcgs.com/prices/detail/susan-b-anthony-dollar/747/most-active
• https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/susan-b-anthony-dollar-coin-values-4046950

     To purchase the 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollar pictured above, visit the Evan's Studio Ebay store to place a bid or make an offer. 

    To license the 1979-P Susan B. Anthony dollar photos featured in this post, visit the Evan's Studio Shutterstock store.

 

2023 Summer Travel Tips: The Best Ways to Save Money

 

Southern California surfers riding waves at dusk. © Evan's Studio, 2023

    

    Summer is a great season to travel, and 2023 is shaping up to be the perfect year to do it.

Now that the worst of the pandemic is well behind us we can travel again and experience new cultures and ways of living.

With so many amazing choices, it can be overwhelming and hard to know where to find the best deals. That's why I've put together a list of the best summer travel tips.

• Be flexible with your travel dates.  If possible, one of the best ways to save money on travel is to be flexible with your dates and experiment with a wide range of different days and times. If you're not set on a specific month, week, or days of the week, you can often find better deals.
• Travel during off-peak seasons. If you're willing to travel during the off-season, you can often find better deals than the more popular times of the year. For example, Joshua Tree has its peak season during the winter and cooler months so you can often find great deals during the summer when it can get extremely hot.
  
• Find package deals. Package deals can be a good way to save on traveling expenses but there may be some tradeoffs in terms of flexibility. Package deals can include airfare, hotel, and car rental, and they can save you a lot of money compared to booking everything separately. Differing companies often enter into partnerships and the resulting promotional package can be cheaper (and simpler) than booking everything separately.
  
• Use credit card points. If you have a travel rewards credit card, then you can use your points to book your flights and hotel. This is a great and simple way to save money on travel expenses.
  
• Research before you travel. Before you book your trip, make sure to do your research, clearly define your travel goals, and compare prices. Shopping around with different companies and travel web sites is a great way to find the best deals.
• License the Evan's Studio image of surfers in Southern California at dusk. This image is perfect for topics about summer travel.

    Have any tips that weren't mentioned? Share them in a comment!

 

The History and Value of the Elusive 1900 Indian Head Penny

 

 The 1900 Indian Head Penny is a rare and highly desired coin that is valued by collectors for its historical and numismatic value. This image shows the front view of the 1900 Indian Head Penny. ©Evan's Studio, 2023.

     The 1900 Indian Head Penny is a rare and highly desired coin that is valued by collectors for its historical and numismatic value. It is composed of 95% copper and 5% tin and zinc. The Indian Head Penny was first minted in 1859 and continued until 1909. It features the bust of a Native American on the front, with the words "Liberty" and the date of minting inscribed on the coin. The back of the coin features a wreath and the words "One Cent."

 The 1900 Indian Head Penny is a rare and highly desired coin that is valued by collectors for its historical and numismatic value. This image shows the back view of the 1900 Indian Head Penny. ©Evan's Studio, 2023.

     The 1900 Indian Head Penny is particularly valuable because it is a turn of the century penny and has a relatively low mintage of 66,831,502 coins. Collectors and investors often pay a premium for rare and historical coins like the 1900 Indian Head Penny. If you have one of these coins in your possession, it could be worth a significant amount of money. The value of a 1900 Indian Head Penny will depend on its condition and rarity, as well as other factors such as demand, supply, precious metal composition, and market trends.

    How to Determine the Value of a 1900 Indian Head Penny

To determine the value of a 1900 Indian Head Penny, you can consult a coin valuation guide or seek the advice of a professional coin dealer. Some online pricing resources include:

• https://www.ngccoin.com/ 

• https://www.pcgs.com/

• https://www.usacoinbook.com

Most Valuable and Expensive Indian Head Penny

The 1905 Gold Indian Cent is currently the most valuable and expensive Indian Head Penny. There are only five known examples of this coin and one sold for $253,000 in 2010.

    Here are some factors that can affect the value of a 1900 Indian Head Penny:

• Condition: The condition of the coin is the most important factor affecting its value. Coins in uncirculated condition are usually the most valuable, followed by coins in very fine condition, fine condition, good condition, and very good condition.

• Rarity: The rarity of the coin is also a factor affecting its value. Coins that are more rare are typically worth more than coins that are more common.

• Demand: The demand for the coin is another factor affecting its value. Coins that are in high demand are typically worth more and the 1900 Indian Head Penny is usually in high demand because of its turn of the century date.

• Supply: The supply of the coin is another factor affecting its value. Coins that are in short supply are typically worth more than coins that are in abundant supply - this is why it is important to pay attention the mintage statistics.

• Market trends: Market trends can also affect the value of a coin. For example, if the market for coins is bullish, then the value of all coins will tend to increase. Conversely, if the market for coins is bearish, then the value of all coins will tend to decrease.

Where to Buy or Sell a 1900 Indian Head Penny

If you are interested in buying or selling a 1900 Indian Head Penny, there are a few different places where you can do so.

• Coin dealers: Coin dealers are a good option for buying or selling coins. They typically have a wide selection of coins available, and they can provide you with an appraisal of the value of your coin.

• Pawn shops: You can sometimes find rare and valuable coins at pawn shops but you need to be prepared to negotiate and do your own research.

• Online auction sites: Online auction sites, such as eBay, are another good option for buying or selling coins. You can find a wide variety of coins available on these sites, and you can often get a good deal on a coin if you are willing to wait for the right auction.

• Estate sales: You can find many valuable coins including the 1900 Indian Head Penny at estate sales.

• Coin shows: Coin shows are a great place to buy or sell coins. You can meet with dealers from all over the country, and sometimes you can get a better deal on a coin at a coin show than you can online or at a coin dealer.

  Need these high-quality Evan's Studio photos for your project? License them now through Getty Images!

  If you are interested in buying the coin pictured above, then feel free to email me with an offer.
  

How Often Should You Have Your Teeth Cleaned? Expert Advice & Tips

 

Got Milk? This cow's pearly whites will definitely make you do a double-take! ©Evan's Studio, 2023.

    Are you curious about how often you should be getting your teeth cleaned? Regular dental cleanings are important for maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing serious dental issues.Why are Regular Teeth Cleanings Important? 

    Having your teeth cleaned on a regular basis is essential for maintaining good oral health. Dental cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay, among other problems. A dental hygienist can also identify any potential issues before they become serious, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer, which can be treated more effectively if detected early.

 Do you know the main difference between human and cow teeth structure? Cows have no upper front teeth! Instead of front teeth they have a dental pad.

How Often Should You Have Your Teeth Cleaned?

    The American Dental Association recommends having your teeth cleaned every six months. However, this schedule may vary depending on your specific circumstances and risk factors. For example, individuals with a history of gum disease, smoking, diabetes, or a weakened immune system may need more frequent cleanings. It’s important to discuss your specific circumstances with your dentist and dental hygienist to determine your ideal teeth cleaning schedule.

Factors That Affect Yearly Teeth Cleaning Frequency

Several factors can impact how often you need to have your teeth cleaned. These include:

1. Oral hygiene routines: regular brushing and flossing can help reduce the buildup of plaque and tartar, which can help reduce the frequency of dental cleanings needed.
2. Diet: certain foods can contribute to the development of plaque and tartar, which can increase the frequency of dental cleanings.
3. Tobacco use: smoking or using tobacco products can increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer, which may mean that you will need more frequent dental cleanings.
4. Medical conditions: some medical conditions can increase the risk of dental problems, which may mean that you will need more teeth cleanings every year.
5. Family history: a family history of dental problems, such as gum disease or tooth decay, may mean that you will need to increase the frequency of dental cleanings.

    Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing serious dental problems. The American Dental Association recommends having your teeth cleaned every six months, but this schedule may vary depending on your specific circumstances and risk factors.

For more information on dental health and hygiene, check out the following links:

• American Dental Association: https://www.ada.org/en

•  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/oralhealth/index.html

•  National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: https://www.nidcr.nih.gov/

    Make your audience smile with this hilarious close-up of a cow's snout and teeth. Click here to purchase this image as a stock photo and add some humor to your creative projects today!

 

 The 1902 Indian Head Penny is a rare and highly desired coin that is valued by collectors for its historical and numismatic value. This image shows the front view of the 1902 Indian Head Penny. ©Evan's Studio, 2023.

Explore the History and Value of the Elusive 1902 Indian Head Penny

    The 1902 Indian Head Penny is a rare and highly desired coin that has a rich history and provides significant value to collectors. The 1902 Indian Head Penny is composed of 95% Copper and 5% Tin and Zinc. The Indian Head Penny was first minted in 1859 and continued until 1909. It features the bust of a Native American on the front, with the words "Liberty" and the date of minting inscribed on the coin. It's common for circulated coins from this era to show wear and tear due to their age. In the coin shown above, you may have noticed that the inscription "Liberty" has worn off. Despite this, these coins remain highly desired by collectors for their historical and numismatic value. The back of the coin features a wreath and the words "One Cent" as shown in the picture below.

 The 1902 Indian Head Penny is a rare and highly desired coin that is valued by collectors for its historical and numismatic value. This image shows the back view of the 1902 Indian Head Penny. ©Evan's Studio, 2023.

    The 1902 Indian Head Penny is particularly valuable because it is one of the last years that the coin was minted. It is also rare due to its relatively low mintage. Collectors and investors often pay a premium for rare and historical coins like the 1902 Indian Head Penny. If you have one of these coins in your possession, it could be worth a significant amount of money.

     If you mistakenly found this page looking for the 1902 liberty head nickel value, then you can visit this page for more details. According to NGC, "as of October 2023, a Liberty Head Nickel from 1902 in circulated condition is worth between $1.50 and $100. However, on the open market 1902 Nickels in pristine, uncirculated condition sell for as much as $28500."

    To determine the value of a 1902 Indian Head Penny, you can consult a coin valuation guide or seek the advice of a professional coin dealer. 

The value of the coin will depend on its condition and rarity, as well as other factors such as demand, supply, precious metal composition, and market trends. The 1902 Indian Head Penny is a rare and valuable coin that is of interest to collectors, historians, and investors alike. If you find one of these coins, it is worth learning more about its history and value.

    Wondering what your penny is made out of and how much it is worth? Enter the year of your penny and find out what it is composed of. 

More coin resources:

• https://www.ngccoin.com/ 
• https://www.pcgs.com/

    Don't miss your opportunity to bid on this beautiful 1902 Indian Head Penny featured in the pictures - the auction is live now on my eBay store! Visit my store now to place your bid and bring this coin home. For more on coins, check out my recent blog post about 1922 Silver Dollars. 

 

What is the XFL?

    If you're a fan of American football, you know all about the NFL, which stands for the National Football League. But what is the XFL? Founded in 2018 by Vince McMahon, the XFL is a professional football league that aims to provide fans with a fresh and exciting take on the sport. The XFL's inaugural season kicked off in 2020 with eight teams from across the United States - four teams in the North division and four in the South. The league features a mix of established players and up-and-coming young guns, providing fans with an opportunity to see some of the best football players in the country.

    The XFL strives to be more fast paced than the NFL and has implemented many new rules. 

For example, kickoffs are taken from the 30-yard line instead of the 35-yard line to encourage returns.The XFL has eliminated the traditional extra point kick after a touchdown in favor of a three-tiered system where teams can score one, two, or three points.

    Click on this link to license the royalty free stock photo seen above and use it for your own creative projects.

The Great Debate: Gas Stoves vs. the Environment - Is Your Cooking Habit Harmful?

 

    Gas Stove Controversy Revealed: Environmental Impact, Health Risks, and Political Debate

 Gas stoves have been all over the news recently. Why? There are several reasons. Natural gas stoves have come under scrutiny for their potential negative impact on the environment due to the release of methane gas. There are also possible health ramifications if you use a natural gas stove and don't have an adequately ventilated house. Politicians are using the topic to spark cultural wars and rally their constituents.

    Illustrating the Natural Gas Stove Debate: Environmental Damage and Health Implications

Are you a journalist, advertiser, blogger, or content creator covering the gas stove controversy? Enhance your coverage with a high-quality stock photo of a natural gas stove. Click here to license the photo shown above and add strong visual impact to your story.

An Introduction to Melee Diamonds

    Melee diamonds are small diamonds that are typically used as accent stones in jewelry making. 

They are often used as accents or side stones in engagement rings, bracelets, necklaces and other decorative pieces. Melee diamonds are defined by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) as diamonds that weigh less than .2 carats. The round diamonds in the picture above are .07 in total carat weight.

 

    One of the benefits of using melee diamonds is that they are cost-effective and relatively cheap compared to their larger diamond counterparts. Since melee diamonds are smaller, they require less rough diamond material to be cut and polished, minimizing cost. In addition, because they are smaller, there are more options to set them in a way that maximizes their sparkle and overall visual impact.

 

    When shopping for melee diamonds, it is important to consider the four Cs of diamond quality: Cut, Clarity, Carat Weight, and Color. 

If you are looking to purchase the melee diamonds pictured above, then click the link to be forwarded to my ebay store. These diamonds used to belong to my grandma and her brother in law was a jeweler. The main takeaway here is that melee diamonds are small diamonds - below .2 carats - and are usually used as accent stones. They offer a relatively inexpensive solution for adding bling and beauty to your jewelry.

Grateful: Reflections on a Recent Interview

    Have you ever been grateful for the chance to share your thoughts and experiences with others - just having the opportunity to be heard? Recently, I had the chance to be interviewed by Subkit and it reminded me of the power of gratitude and counting your blessings. Subkit interviews small business entrepreneurs in a series that they call "Go Solo Stories." What we focus on tends to expand. So why focus your attention on the negative and misery? There is too much negativity in the world already. Today I am thankful for the platform to express my ideas and being able to share some of the lessons that I have learned running a small business.

    In this interview, I discussed a variety of topics including my background, the creation of Evan's Studio, and lessons I think will be valuable to new business owners. It was a privilege to be able to reflect on my experiences and share my insights with a wider audience. One of the most significant takeaways from the interview was the reminder of how much progress I have made and how grateful I am for the opportunities and support I have received along the way. I can't say that it has been easy but that was never my expectation. It was a reminder to always be thankful for the journey with all its ups and downs, and to appreciate the people and experiences that have shaped me into who I am today.

    Thank you for taking the time to read about my interviewing experience. I hope you enjoy what I have to say and find inspiration and value in my reflections. You can check out the full interview here: https://gosolo.subkit.com/evans-studio/ 

    This dramatic microphone image is sure to turn heads. Get your license today!